Method for rotating a track chain bushing

Abstract

It is recommended practice to turn each bushing in a track chain of a track-type vehicle which is composed of interconnected bushings and links after a measured amount of wear has occurred to expose different wear surfaces and extend the useful life of the track chain. Heretofore, such turning of the bushing required time consuming disassembly and reassembly of the track chain or the use of inefficient tools. A method and apparatus are provided for rotating the bushing and exposing a new wear surface. The method includes torquing the bushing (14) and impacting the link (12) to turn the bushing (14). The apparatus includes a clamp (24) which engages and torques the bushing (14) and an impactor (36, 38) for impacting the link (12) until the bushing (14) rotates relative to the link (12).

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. In a method for rotating a bushing (14) of an assembled and in place track (10) of a track-type vehicle (20) to expose a new wear surface, said track (10) having interconnected links (12) fitted on opposed ends of the bushing (14), said method including applying a rotative force to the bushing (14), the improvement comprising: impacting the links (12) and applying a rotative force to the links (12) opposite in direction to the rotative force applied to the bushing (14) connected to the links (12).   
     
     
       2. A method, as set forth in claim 1, including impacting the links (12) connected to one end of the bushing (14), and impacting the links (12) connected to the other end of the bushing (14) in an alternating manner.   
     
     
       3. A method for rotating a cylindrical member (14) relative to a connected member (12), comprising: connecting a clamp (24) to the cylindrical member (14);   applying a force to the clamp (24) and applying a rotative force to the cylindrical member (14); and   impacting the connected member (12).